In life, there are instances when our enemies, driven by malice, make statements about us that surprisingly turn out to be compliments. It’s fascinating how criticism, when carefully pondered, can reveal unexpected truths. This phenomenon was evident in the words spoken about Jesus by those who opposed him.
“And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.”” (Luke 15:2, ESV)
The Pharisees, known for their separatist views, held sinners in contempt and refused to associate with them. Yet, when they criticized Jesus for dining with sinners, they unintentionally paid him a compliment. Jesus saw beyond their faults and came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). He demonstrated that through compassion and understanding, even the vilest sinner could find hope and forgiveness (John 8:1-12).
“So the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the council and said, “What are we to do? For this man performs many signs.” (John 11:47, ESV)
Although the Pharisees resented admitting it, they couldn’t deny that Jesus performed remarkable miracles. From feeding thousands to raising the dead, Jesus’ miracles served as undeniable evidence of his divine nature (Acts 2:22). Their unintentional acknowledgment of his miracles testified to his identity and mission.
“Nor do you understand that it is better for you that one man should die for the people, not that the whole nation should perish.” He did not say this of his own accord, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, and not for the nation only, but also to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad. So from that day on they made plans to put him to death.” (John 11:50–53, ESV)
The high priest Caiaphas’s statement, motivated by self-interest, unwittingly pointed to the profound truth of Jesus’ sacrificial mission. He came to give his life as a ransom for many (Matt. 20:28), offering salvation to all who would believe.
“Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, “I find no guilt in this man.”” (Luke 23:4, ESV)
Even Pilate and Herod Antipas, who examined Jesus during his trial, acknowledged his innocence (Luke 23:14-15). Jesus’ sinlessness set him apart as a perfect example to follow and qualified him to become the unblemished Lamb of God, the ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s sins.
“Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a dream.”” (Matthew 27:19, ESV)
“So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood; see to it yourselves.”” (Matthew 27:24, ESV)
The words of Pilate’s wife and Pilate himself testified to Jesus’ righteousness. Although Pilate reluctantly condemned him to satisfy the crowd, he knew in his heart that Jesus was innocent. By proclaiming his innocence, Pilate unintentionally recognized Jesus’ moral purity.
““He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him.” (Matthew 27:42, ESV)
The mocking words hurled at Jesus while he hung on the cross carried an unintended truth. Indeed, Jesus could have saved himself, but he willingly endured the agonies of crucifixion to save us from sin and reconcile us with God. His self-sacrifice displayed the depth of his love for humanity.
“And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone’s opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances.” (Matthew 22:16, ESV)
Even Jesus’ adversaries had to admit his truthfulness and impartiality. He fearlessly taught the ways of God, unswayed by human opinions or favoritism. This acknowledgment inadvertently highlights Jesus’ integrity and commitment to God’s truth.
“saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.”” (Matthew 27:4, ESV)
Judas Iscariot’s remorseful confession after betraying Jesus underscores the Savior’s innocence. In fulfilling Scripture, Jesus remained blameless, and even the traitor recognized the gravity of his actions.
“and twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on his head and put a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him, they mocked him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!”” (Matthew 27:29, ESV)
The mocking soldiers, unknowingly fulfilling prophecy, proclaimed Jesus as the King of the Jews. Little did they realize that their jesting words pointed to the truth of his divine kingship.
“When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, “Truly this was the Son of God!”” (Matthew 27:54, ESV)
At the crucifixion, a Roman centurion, witnessing the events unfold, couldn’t help but declare, “Truly this was the Son of God.” In the face of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, the centurion recognized the truth about Jesus’ identity.
While Jesus’ enemies intended to denigrate him, their words inadvertently showcased the depth of his character and the significance of his mission. Through their unintentional compliments, we gain a deeper appreciation for Jesus’ love, sacrifice, and divine nature. Jesus, the Savior of the world, proves to be the ultimate example of turning negativity into profound positivity.
~PW 🌮🛶
Phillip W. Martin 
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